The latest Chris Carpenter MLB and fantasy baseball news

Updating a previous report, St. Louis Cardinals general manager John Mozeliak said retired SP Chris Carpenter will join the team's front office in a role that has not yet been clearly defined. He could be involved in the scouting process and will be present in Jupiter, Fla. for part of spring training.

St. Louis Cardinals SP Chris Carpenter (shoulder) said he's not optimistic that he'll make it back to pitch this season. He has no plans to visit with any doctors and hasn't thrown since his last rehab outing. Carpenter is in the process of determining whether he wants to try and play next season.

Fantasy Tip: It's becoming pretty clear that it might be a miracle for Carp to return this season. Don't feel obligated to hold out hope or a roster spot for him.

St. Louis Cardinals SP Chris Carpenter (shoulder) felt more numbness in his hand over the weekend and will visit with doctors Tuesday, July 23. It's unknown when he will throw again.

Fantasy Tip: Any little setback like this for Carp could mean the end of his comeback bid. Keep an eye out for the results of his meeting with doctors. It's looking increasingly unlikely that he'll have enough time to return for the second half of the season now.

St. Louis Cardinals SP Chris Carpenter (shoulder) allowed two earned runs on six hits and two walks while fanning five in 2 2/3 innings at Double-A Springfield Monday, July 15. He had four K's through two scoreless frames and appeared to hit a wall in the third inning. He threw 54 pitches, and 38 of them were strikes. According to the Hammons Field radar gun, his fastball sat between 89 mph and 92 mph, and his cutter ranged from 86 to 88. He threw his full arsenal of pitches. Carpenter said he felt physically feel great, and he feels he is improving. "It starts with trying to command your fastball and command your secondary pitches, which I feel like I did," Carpenter said. "My stuff felt better than it did the last time I threw, (last week in a simulated game.)"

Fantasy Tip: Carp was just cleared to begin the assignment. It'll be a lengthy one, but obviously this is a big step toward a return to a big league mound. An NL-only manager's interest may be piqued, at least.